2009 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML would be higher. At 5,460 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML. (215 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 625 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz S.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML. (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz S | 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | ML |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5460 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 382 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3170 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 72 L |
